Active Shooter Safety Guidelines

While it is highly unlikely there will ever be an active shooter event on campus, it is best to be prepared.  Because each active shooter situation is unique, the guidelines are just that, rather than rules. In an active shooter situation it will be up to you to use your best judgment to decide how to react and remain safe.

“An active shooter is an individual actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a confined and populated area; in most cases, active shooters use firearms and display no pattern or method to their selection of victims”. United States Department of Homeland Security.

The current recommendation from the Department of Homeland Security is to Run, Hide, or Fight in an active shooter situation.

Run

If it is safe to do so, move away from the sound of gunfire as quickly as possible, and exit the building. Keep moving until you are well outside the area of danger.

• When safe to do so, call 911
• Encourage and help others to escape with you if possible.

Hide

If you are unable to run, because the shooter is between your location and the exit, find a secure place to hide where the shooter is unlikely to find you.

• Turn off the lights.
• Lock the door and otherwise barricade the entry to your location.
• Silence your phone, and remain quiet until the police arrive.

Fight

As a last resort, when your life is in imminent danger, attempt to distract or physically attack the shooter.

• Shout and make as much noise as possible, attempting to distract the shooter.
• Throw items and use any improvised weapons you can.
• Attempt to grab the weapon or weapon holding hand of the attacker, directing it away from             yourself and others.
• If you are with others, attack as a group. Be prepared to lead the attack if others hesitate.

When the police arrive

• Follow all instructions
• Raise your hands, dropping any items you are carrying.
• Do not ask for help, or directions as the initial officers will be focused on stopping the attacker
• Avoid quick movements, pointing, or screaming

What can you do to prepare for or prevent an active shooter event before it occurs?

• Make note of possible exit routes you might use in an active shooter situation.
• Make note of locations you might hide or barricade yourself if necessary.
• If you notice any suspicious or worrying behavior from anyone a the College, fill out an incident report, or otherwise
contact Bellin College Security, who will investigate your concern.

Bellin College Security

(920) 433-6699
In the event of an emergency, call 911